How to Take and Pass A Multiple Choice Test

Test anxiety has been a part of student life ever since formal schooling has been in existence. Most students suffer from test anxiety in various forms and at varying levels even after extensive test prep. Whether taking the SAT test, GMAT test, GRE test, ACT test or any other tests that have sections containing multiple choice questions, there are several ways to prepare and take the tests that increase your chances of doing well.

Things You Will Need

Quiet place to study

Step 1

The first step is to read the question and the answers carefully. Always read them twice before answering the question.If you do not know the answer, leave it blank on the first time through the test. Later questions may offer a clue as to how to answer the question. It is important to budget your time. Don't get bogged down on a single question at the expense of others that you know the answers to. Move on and come back to the question later. If after completing the rest of the test you still do not know the answer, guess. The only thing that will happen is you will get the answer wrong which is what will happen if you leave it blank. However, there is an exception to this rule. While the vast majority of tests do not penalize you for wrong answers, a few do. Know the specific rules and parameters of the test you are taking.

Step 2

The next step is not to read more into a question than what is specifically asked for. Don't try to second guess the writer of the test by assuming they are looking for something else. It is also helpful to turn the question into a statement. Usually the syntax of a question holds a clue that may trigger memories of the material that you have read and you may be able to identify an answer that sounds right.

Step 3

The next step is to look for clues in the questions. In the majority of multiple choice tests you can eliminate one or two of the potential answers based on how the question is worded.

Step 4

The next step is to trust your instincts. On questions that you are not totally certain about, go with your first choice. It is usually right. Your mind retains some part of every fact that you have read.

Whether taking the SAT test, GMAT test, GRE test, ACT test or any other tests that have sections containing multiple choice questions, there are several ways to prepare and take the tests that increase your chances of doing well. Use the suggestions above to improve your test results and reduce your stress.